Rabobank’s Approach to Hybrid Working
- Jan NieuweboerRoad manager hybrid work
- Reading time
“Work is what you do, not where you are”
The pandemic made many of us realize just how convenient remote work can be. But while some employers are calling people back into the office, Rabobank has decided to stay flexible. Hybrid working offers a practical way of combining work, home and caring responsibilities, allows time for activities with a social impact, and eases pressure on younger team members.
As one of the country’s largest employers, Rabobank wants to lead the way, says Jan Nieuweboer, road manager for hybrid working at Rabobank, “We’re looking at the long-term health outcomes on our people and business.” Jan recognizes how hybrid working improves work-life balance. “As employees struggle to balance work and caregiving responsibilities, being a flexible employer means we can give them the space they need.”
Growing a Better World
Rabobank encourages employees to combine their work with roles serving the community and society, such as volunteering or becoming a reservist for the Ministry of Defense. “Younger generations feel a deep need for purpose in the workplace. In that respect, it makes a difference when your role aligns with your ambitions to grow a better world.”
Shift to Flexible Work
Many people believe the pandemic triggered a mindset shift toward flexible working, but that shift was already well underway, says Jan. The pandemic turbocharged it. “We experimented with activity-based working in the early 2000s, dividing offices up into zones for concentrated work and collaboration.”
“But then laptops became widespread, and offices were fashioned as ‘great places to be’ rather than ‘great places to work’. We saw the rise of more informal meeting spaces, coffee stations and allowances for employees to create ergonomic home offices.”
Hybrid Working is Measurably Better
95% of employees think hybrid working is an improvement on before, with productivity and engagement increasing the more they work from home. Jan believes that’s because of autonomy. “The way we work is changing. We’re doing fewer routine tasks and more knowledge-based work, which requires greater professional autonomy. That’s why we follow principles rather than rules. Having a set of rules for each role and each team is impractical, so we let the people and teams decide, as they’re experts on their roles.”
Work Your Way
Rabobank employees spend about 1.5 to 2 days in the office. There’s no fixed rule – it’s about what works. And what works for one team or employee might not work for another. “Not everyone can or wants to work hybrid. If you don’t have much space at home or are going through a nasty breakup, you may prefer working five days at the office. But if you have caregiving responsibilities, being able to work more from home can offer relief. There’s no issue, just as long as you consult with your team and supervisor.”
The 3 Principles of Hybrid Working at Rabobank
- Use digital tools where possible and find ways to work smarter – such as using AI to make a meeting transcript.
- Have in-person meetings with your team – it’s good to meet as a team during project milestones.
- Meet up – grab a coffee with a colleague or go to networking or other events. Getting to know people is an important part of work.
The Logistics of Hybrid Working
Are there any bumps along the road? Jan smiles and says, “Absolutely. The logistics of it can be tricky in practice. Who’s working where and when? Is everyone still on board? When does it make sense to meet in person? Hybrid working is all about collaboration and communication, but that’s why it’s so great. You’re on that journey together.”
We believe hybrid working is the very future of work."
The Future Is (And Will Be) Hybrid
Is hybrid working here to stay? Jan thinks so, especially for younger generations. “They have a fundamentally different outlook on work. Yes, they see value in going to the office, but not every day. Work is what you do, not where you are. Times have changed. And that’s why hybrid working at Rabobank isn’t just another passing trend: We believe it’s the very future of work.”